What distinguishes a middle-range theory from a grand theory of nursing?

A) The client's spouse: This choice suggests that the client's spouse has the authority to give permission for a DNR order. In most cases, it is the competent client themselves who has the authority to make decisions about their own medical treatment, including DNR orders. Spouses may have a say and their input is considered, but the ultimate decision typically lies with the competent client.

B) The client's only child: This choice suggests that the client's only child can give permission for a DNR order. Similar to the explanation for choice A, the decision-making authority for a DNR order generally rests with the competent client, not their child. However, a client may choose to discuss their medical decisions with their child and take their wishes into consideration.

C) The client: This choice correctly identifies that the competent client themselves is the one who typically has the legal and ethical authority to make decisions about their medical treatment, including DNR orders. This is based on principles of autonomy and respect for the individual's wishes.

D) Any close blood-related relative: This choice suggests that any close blood-related relative has the authority to give permission for a DNR order. Similar to choices A and B, the decision-making authority is typically with the competent client. While family members' input is valuable and should be considered, they do not have the ultimate decision-making power for the client's medical treatment.

Middle-range theories have a large number of variables, while grand theories have only a few:Both middle-range theories and grand theories can have varying numbers of variables. The number of variables is not the distinguishing factor between them.

Grand theories are socially significant, while middle-range theories have theoretical significance: Grand theories often have a broader scope and are more abstract, addressing fundamental concepts related to nursing and health. They tend to be more theoretical and less focused on specific practical applications. Middle-range theories, on the other hand, are more specific and are developed to explain and predict limited aspects of nursing practice, making them applicable to particular situations. While grand theories might be seen as socially significant due to their broader concepts, middle-range theories are valuable for their theoretical significance in guiding specific areas of practice.

Middle-range theories form a theoretical framework for evidence-based practice (EBP) research projects: Middle-range theories are often used in nursing research and practice to guide specific research questions and interventions. They provide a structured framework for understanding and addressing specific phenomena, making them valuable in evidence-based practice initiatives.

There are fewer middle-range theories than there are grand theories: The number of theories in both categories can vary, and it's not accurate to say that there are inherently fewer middle-range theories than grand theories. Both categories have contributed significantly to the development of nursing knowledge, and the quantity of theories in each category does not define their value or impact.